In Search of the Miraculous

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

—

Title

In Search of the Miraculous

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

P. D. Ouspensky recounts his journey to the East in search of a new reality beyond the "obvious absurdities" of ordinary life. This text explores esoteric schools, the mechanics of human energy, and the rigorous path required to achieve inner transformation and consciousness.

Summary up to 500 words

In Search of the Miraculous by P. D. Ouspensky chronicles the author's quest to find a path beyond the contradictions of ordinary existence. Returning from travels through India and Europe in 1914, Ouspensky concludes that a 'new road' exists, distinct from the 'law of accident' governing daily life. He critiques esoteric schools relying on self-suggestion, trance states, or sentimental mysticism, dismissing them as mere allurement or spiritualism. Instead, he advocates for a rational approach to self-knowledge, treating the human organism as a laboratory with specific centers requiring different fuels. Ouspensky introduces the concept of the 'fourth body,' achievable only through the complete control of automatic actions to save energy for higher development. He explains that psychic processes are material; just as different machines require specific fuels like oil or gasoline, different centers in the human body require specific substances. Emotions like anger or worry can 'explode' this internal fuel supply, leaving a person empty. To avoid this, one must learn to economize energy and regulate the three centers: thinking, emotional, and moving. The narrative follows Ouspensky's encounters with a charismatic guide, G., who leads a group in Paris and Fontainebleau. Under G.'s direction, the group practices breathing exercises, rhythmic movements, and mental training. Ouspensky details the dangers of amateur attempts at these practices, noting that improper breathing can disorganize the body's functions, potentially leading to death. He emphasizes that the 'Way' begins on a higher level than ordinary life, accessible only through a 'stairway' facilitated by a guide who transmits conscious influences directly from person to person. The work documents the group's activities, including the reproduction of dervish dances and intensive mental exercises. It also recounts the tragic death of Katherine Mansfield at the Fontainebleau retreat and the eventual dissolution of the group in 1924. Following G.'s departure for America, Ouspensky decides to continue his work independently. The book serves as a substantial overview of early 20th-century spiritual teachings, focusing on the necessity of distinguishing between influences created in life and those originating from outside it, ultimately aiming for inner unity and the penetration into a reality beyond the 'thin film of false reality.'

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.globalgreyebooks.com/ebooks/p-d-ouspensky_in-search-of-the-miraculous.epub

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Categories

• Religion
• Philosophy